"We understand what we're playing for. We want to be third, we want to win our division, we want to make a run in the playoffs, but we've got to finish this season strong," said Toronto guard Greivis Vasquez.

Paul Millsap had 17 points and sharpshooter Kyle Korver extended his streak of consecutive games with a 3-pointer to 120.

The Raptors used a big second half to pull away in this one. They led by one at the break but quickly built a 52-44 cushion after scoring the first seven points of the frame.

Patterson split a pair at the free throw line at 6:21 for a 63-53 edge, and Toronto led by at least eight points the rest of the way.

Steve Novak followed a Vasquez finger roll early in the fourth with a deep triple. Vasquez then hit from distance moments later for a 21-point margin and the hosts coasted the rest of the way.

The first half featured seven lead changes and five ties. Ross broke a 42-42 deadlock with his trey towards the end of the half, and the Raptors took a 45-44 lead into intermission.

Game Notes

Atlanta was without forward DeMarre Carroll, who missed the tilt with a
strained left hamstring ... The Hawks outscored Toronto 50-32 in the paint ...
Toronto did not score in transition ... The Raptors had just seven turnovers
while forcing 15 by Atlanta ... Toronto enters the All-Star break with sole
possession of third place in the Eastern Conference.